2026 SESSION

INTRODUCED

26106870D

SENATE RESOLUTION NO. 35

Offered February 4, 2026

Commending Bernard A. Pishko.

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Patron—Williams Graves (By Request)

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WHEREAS, Bernard A. Pishko, a respected legal mind and dedicated public servant, is retiring as city attorney of the City of Norfolk after more than four decades of distinguished service; and

WHEREAS, throughout his tenure, Bernard Pishko provided steady, principled, and insightful legal counsel to Norfolk's elected officials, executive leadership, and municipal departments, ensuring that the city's actions were grounded in sound law, ethical practice, and a commitment to the public good; and

WHEREAS, Bernard Pishko's work touched every corner of municipal governance, from land use and economic development to public safety, environmental stewardship, and constitutional matters, and he consistently approached complex issues with clarity, fairness, and a deep respect for the rule of law; and

WHEREAS, through his leadership as city attorney, Bernard Pishko strengthened Norfolk's legal foundation and supported major public institutions, including the Norfolk School Board, the Norfolk Employees' Retirement System, the Community Services Board, the Chrysler Museum of Art, and Lake Taylor Transitional Care Hospital; and

WHEREAS, Bernard Pishko guided Norfolk through significant legal challenges and policy decisions, including a landmark charter interpretation affirming the city attorney's authority in prosecuting local ordinance violations, and he provided continuity and stability through numerous transitions in city leadership; and

WHEREAS, Bernard Pishko's career reflects the highest ideals of public law and his contributions have strengthened not only the City of Norfolk but the Commonwealth as a whole; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED by the Senate of Virginia, That Bernard A. Pishko hereby be commended for his exemplary record of public service on the occasion of his retirement as city attorney of the City of Norfolk; and, be it

RESOLVED FURTHER, That the Clerk of the Senate prepare a copy of this resolution for presentation to Bernard A. Pishko as an expression of the Senate of Virginia's admiration for his many years of commitment to the Norfolk community and best wishes for a fulfilling retirement.